I really wanted to love this place but was disappointed. I'm a Texas girl so when I saw queso on the menu, I got excited but so sad that it was room temperature, almost cold and mind you, I ate at the restaurant. Flavor was good but why was it not hot, not even warm! The guacamole tasted good and fresh. The tortilla chips were my fav kind so happy about that. I also got a burrito and again, disappointed. At least it was hot but like 75% rice, 25% protein. No cheese, no crema and no salsa like the menu says and I think there was a teaspoon of pico de gallo in there too. I've never been to a Mexican restaurant where they don't serve you salsa on the side or on the table, this was crazy. Positives, the tortilla was good and so was the rice, both seemed homemade. But come on - this totally ruined my first experience. read more

Playa Taqueria - Burrito, you can see how off the ratio of meat to rice to other ingredients is - Mexican Near Me - Montclair, New Jersey

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Nice people. Not so good food. Everything was sort of a mess. Wet and weird. I need to make this review 85 characters. Did I get there?

This was a pleasant stop. My top-tier chum and I came by this past Saturday around noon for some much needed sustenance during the Montclair Town-wide Yard Sale (which I honestly thought was terrible - if you don't have kids, you were not finding much beyond moldy pogo sticks and tattered luggage sets. Dark times.). Apparently there was also a sidewalk sale going on in Upper Montclair so it was definitely on the crowded side when we wandered over but we were still able to secure parking about a block away. Deliciously uneventful. Despite the congestion in the surrounding area, Playa Taqueria wasn't too busy - there were a few people seated outside, but otherwise we were able to walk right up to the counter and order. My favorite part of this experience by far was that Playa let you kind of mix and match/build your own. I'm very picky when it comes to Mexican because I don't like crunchy shizzle in my food (which is kind of a calling card of the genre) so a lot of times I'm out once pico de gallo or whatever automatically gets involved. Despite several items not being to my liking in the official quesadilla description, I was able to pivot and order a very basic version of it, with just chicken, cheese and a guac add-on. (After making an enormous deal of ordering off menu, the woman behind the counter listened to my order, nodded slowly and said, "...so you want a chicken quesadilla." I may have blown the situation out of proportion.) The quesadilla was very good. It was definitely made to order, so it came out several minutes after my chum's meal (a bowl of nachos or something that was housed quickly). It's not a formal restaurant by any stretch so the disparate arrival times to me aren't a big deal, especially when you're getting a better quality meal being made right then and then. It was a LITTLE too cheesy for me (absolutely dictionary definition nitpick), and it's wild to me that queso is one of the typical ingredients in this dish; I can't even imagine the cheese overload in that scenario. But the chicken was very flavorful and I was pleased that the guac was a legit portion (an item in my experience where you really have to pull teeth to get more than a very small spoonful, even if you're already paying extra for it). The restaurant (at least the front end) was being handled by a handful of young women, all of whom were very nice. The one at the register who dealt with my order specifically deserves top marks for dealing with my high maintenance behavior capably and ably. I also didn't think the price point was too bad - the obvious chain comp for me would be something like a Bubakoo's, which is definitely a step or two below this and really greasy. I think you're getting better food for roughly the same cost, which I'll always take in a heartbeat. I can't recommend the Town-Wide Yard Sale this year, but I do recommend this place. read more

Playa Taqueria - Chicken/Cheese Quesadilla. - Mexican Near Me - Montclair, New Jersey

I happen to be in the neighborhood and decided to try this new taco spot. I'm so glad I did. It's a restaurant with a beautiful outdoor set up that immediately caught my eye. From the moment I walked in the staff was incredibly friendly and welcoming, which made the experience even better. I ordered the chicken taco, the shrimp taco, rice, refried beans and a Mexican street corn. Every single item was fresh, flavorful, and absolutely delicious. The portions were just right and the pricing was very reasonable. Overall, I left happy and already thinking about what I'll try next time I come here. This place will definitely be a go to for tacos for me going forward. I highly recommend. This is a must try. read more

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Food exceeded expectations!! Definitely recommend getting the nachos and the guacamole - we wanted to try the elote but they ran out for the day. Service was fast and got our food right away even though they were packed. The since was fairly small inside it hade maybe 3 tables that sat 2? But they also had tables outside that are shaded! Parking was fairly easy for Montclair since it was more on a side street than on a main road. read more

Playa Taqueria - Mexican Near Me - Montclair, New Jersey

Ive passed by this place a few times and am so glad I decided to let my curiosity get the best of me! If you're in the Montclair area and want to grab a quick bite to go I suggest Playa Taqueria. The interior and staff are super welcoming! I tried their nachos (with shrimp) and guac with chips and they did not disappoint. Both options very flavorful and they were not stingy with the shrimp. I will say their portions were just right. I'll be back to try their desserts! read more

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The short rib tacos were some of the best tacos I've ever had in New Jersey. The meat was extraordinarily tender. The salsas were perfect. The tortilla was well-made and felt store-made. The chicken was also really great. I ate so fast I couldn't take photos. Service was super friendly and vibes are casual. Also have a great assortment of Jaritos flavors. The churro cookie was so ooey gooey, it felt like a butter cake! I can't wait to go back. read more

Stopped by for a quick bite. Friendly cashier guided me ( first time here) Food was fresh and delicious read more

Incredible food, so grateful I can get a superb burrito for a reasonable price in Montclair

10/10, no notes. the food was fresh, flavorful and affordable. I'll be back tomorrow, on my lunch break. the service was A1 as well. read more

Playa Taqueria - shrimp burrito bowl - comes with hot sauce and crushed tortilla chips. the guava jarritos was a paid actress. - Mexican Near Me - Montclair, New Jersey

I am a true optimist when it comes to new restaurants in Montclair because I want them to be incredibly successful and I would love to add them to my dinner rotation. Playa Taqueria definitely fits the bill to become my favorite in town. The food is authentic, flavorful without being too pungent on heat or spice. It's the perfect balance of savory and richness. I ordered a chicken burrito holding the refried beans as they are made with pork and I was thankfully provided that detail by the staff. Also chicken nachos and esquites. Everything I ordered was delicious and fresh. I think my favorite was the taste and texture of the tortilla. It's not your average tortilla folks or comparable to others in the area. This tortilla taste like it was handmade with love my your Abuelita. It was not pasty, dry with a residual chalky taste. The tortilla was smooth, buttery and reminded me of a Caribbean roti skin or a paratha wrapped Kati roll. I'm drooling at the memory. The portion sizes are moderate, enough for one person but the prices are fair enough to order more food if you're greedy like me. My esquites seemed a bit skimpy but still good with a little added twist of takis. This is a chill spot without the extra flair to convince you that it's a fun space. Your evidence is in the taste and good customer service, always a win in my book when you are greeted and treated with respect. Enjoy! read more

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My kids and I came in on a Saturday afternoon and fell in love with this place. The staff was super friendly with my kids and made awesome recommendations on the spot. I loved how many jarritos they had! All different flavors. Their food was delicious and fresh. Fun festive bright colors inside and cool seating outside. I will definitely come back! read more

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This place is awesome ... the food was amazing authentic Mexican dishes packed with incredible flavor. The place is clean, cozy, and has an, at home, family feel. The staff was great from start to finish. Definitely give it a try...you're guaranteed to love it. read more

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I couldn't wait to get some good ol tacos from this restaurant. When I arrived I parked on the street nearby. I walked in and was greeted. The place was cozy. I ordered the shrimp and sweet potato tacos, the street corn, and the burrito bowl. It took about 7 minutes. When I dug in, the food was delicious. My favorite was the shrimp tacos' hands down. I really enjoyed this place and would return! read more

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I want to apologize to Playa Taqueria for sleeping on them for so long. I moved to Montclair about two years ago and for Mexican, kept making the trek back to Mariachi Grill back in Lyndhurst. Didn't feel like fighting Friday night traffic so looked closer to Montclair for decent Mexican food. Placed a pickup order via GrubHub. Arrived around 7pm, and it was packed. That said, there's only two tables (and had probably 4-5 parties waiting for their take-out) inside so plan for your meal to go if you don't feel like waiting for a spot to open up. I got the Quesadilla Shrimp Mojo De Ajo. SO GOOD. Can't wait to go back and try more of their menu items. My GF got the Nachos Pollo Adobado and she loved it. Obviously, YMMV, but this has been the best Mexican we've had since living in this immediate area (outside of Mariachi Grill in Lyndhurst and La Casa de Los Tacos in Secaucus). read more

Playa is my go to when I get off the train and don't want to cook or have anything in my refrigerator. I love their nachos, but I have also tried the shortrib tacos (yummy), the quesadillas and burritos. The portions are decent sized, tasty and fresh. The staff is nice and helpful if you have a question or need a suggestion. I first discovered them at the annual sidewalk sale. I am a fan of Playa Taqueria read more

The food, service, and ambiance were great! First time trying this place and it didn't disappoint. My video says it all! read more

Food was very flavorful. Love that the corn is in a bowl and not on a cob which can be a mess. Service was quick and the place is clean and efficiently laid out. One thing I will say as a personal preference: the food was warmish but not hot. I like my food piping hot when it's served to me. Still flavor was good. Ingredients fresh and quality. read more

Playa Taqueria - Chicken burrito with refried beans and street corn bowl - Mexican Near Me - Montclair, New Jersey

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I love it here the food is so good and they give us free stuff sometimes it's really amazing.

Ordered catering DIY Taco bar for 20 people. Excellent customer service over the phone and in person! Everything was well packed (a little leakage of one meat item though). Our guests really liked were thrilled! Thank you! read more

Nachos were terribly stale. I wanted to return it but didn't want to go through the hassle. Ingredients were cheap tasting like taco bell. Ingredients were lacking. Barely any beans on this and beans are cheap. This small nachos cost $9 and is inedible bc of the stale chips or whatever they were trying to do with the ingredients just doesn't mix well. There's not much to it. Tacoria is wayyyyyyyy better & you actually get what you pay for. Owner should eat his own food this is unacceptable. read more

Playa Taqueria - Nachos - Mexican Near Me - Montclair, New Jersey

A little gem that's a must visit! Generous delicious servings that put national chains like Chipotle for the same price!

The food was so yummy, def worth stopping by. Our favorite was the quesadilla it was so cheesy and creamy. The service was also amazing they were so quick and very friendly. read more

Playa Taqueria - NACHOS LONGANIZA, TACO SHORTRIB SUADERO, QUESADILLA LONGANIZA - Mexican Near Me - Montclair, New Jersey

The order was done very quickly, but items were missing. The food was cold. I called and was told that I would be refunded and I'm fair so if I am, I'll let my fellow yelpers know. read more

The tacos here are great. Yes, it's $5 a taco but the quality is good so just pay it and enjoy!

I've come here a few times now and every time I've been greeted kindly by the staff and served excellent food! Their burritos are about $9-10 which is much cheaper than most places and everything is seasoned and full of flavor. The short rib burrito is a must try + their delicious salsa verde. Definitely recommend this spot. No reason to go to overpriced Chipotle when you can get much better and more authentic Mexican food at a place like this! read more

Playa Taqueria - Mexican Near Me - Montclair, New Jersey

I'm not usually thrilled by a taco place but their shrimp burrito and tacos are so delicious. I'm not sure what it is but I think it's the tortilla that is so flavorful. Great staff and very reasonable pricing and thry are now my go to for especially a quick meal. You won't be disappointed. read more

When it comes to tacos - there is no fake love The tacos at Playa Taqueria blessed all of my taste buds The Pollo Adobado and Short Rib with the heavenly marinades I'm expressing my love for this place like a serenade They are bringing the people handcrafted, culinary sensations These folks ain't playing around - feed your temptations Mark my words - the Nixtamal Corn is the game changer Make ya head explode - certified brain banger My second trip back - this time I didn't stop for tacos Let's get straight to the 'Guac' - on a scale of 1-10 - I give it 10 avocados The 'Cup O Esquites' - much to my surprise - it came in unique form It was essentially a mind-blowing deconstructed street corn Be warned - there's a lot of incredible deliciousness going on here I don't know what the chef is doing but I really like what's going on here I got those Nachos - Short Rib braised with spices - Suadero steez House-made queso, black beans, Pico, Crema - take my dinero, please Chipotle! Salsa Verde! The Sauce Man gives a thumbs up I could eat this food every day - sun down to sun up So stop what you're doing and start alerting your neighbors 206 Bellevue Avenue, Montclair - a place bursting with flavor Vibrant and Authentic - establishing a special legacy Shout out to Chef Ricky for those little twists and special recipes Big Ups to Charlie and the entire team for the good energy Ingrained in my brain - nothing but good memories I'm Ciphurphace and I approve this message. read more

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Delicious. Had the short rib nachos with a side of a guacamole. The guacamole was fresh and perfectly made. The short rib was so flavorful. One of the best taco places I've been to in a while. read more

As a native NYer, the food in NJ is subpar. It's not the story here. The food was amazing!!!! It's been so long since I've had food that's actually seasoned. The rice, bean, chicken, and street corn was on point. Definitely stop in and indulge. You won't be sorry. read more

A cute Mexican spot! I tried their camote( sweet potato) burrito bowl, it was great. It was fresh, flavorful and tasty. Tacos were also good, loved their tortilla. Cup o esquites their street corn was also good, my friends liked it but I wasn't a fan, it was salty. Would definitely go back!! read more

A bit pricey but I've never had a bad meal here. The food is fresh and tastes great. The bowls and the burritos!

By far most flavorful tacos, chips and guacamole in Montclair. Ordered a chicken, shrimp and longaniza (sausage) taco. Each protein was individually seasoned and tasted great. I've never had Longaniza and will definitely be ordering it again - very unique option. Service was speedy and very friendly. Owner knew all the ingredients as my wife can't have certain seasoning. He made her a special guacamole she could eat. Can't wait to go back to try a bowl or burrito. read more

Taste and price is crazy good. Lucky my high school kid wanted to try! Food!! Service!! Ambiance!! People that you meet waiting inside with you!!! read more

The corn was from a can. The salad came without dressing but at the same time was extremely wet and soggy. They put a half a radish in each taco. Not sliced or anything. Just half a radish. Chipotle is far superior. And that's saying something. read more

at first I thought $4/taco was pricey. HOWEVER, the portions are hearty. A LOT of protein. I tried the shrimp, suadero and pork belly tacos. Pork Belly takes the prize. Delicious! Definately worth the price! read more

We ordered from here last night. I thought everything was top quality. To note: don't sleep on the sweet potato burrito-it is simple but elegant. The short rib was as good as it gets (husband had it as a bowl with rice, beans and salad). Nice bright place and a great addition to the Upper Montclair business area. I hope they do well here. read more

We were in the area to see a basketball game at a local college. We popped in to get a quick bite. Food was absolutely delicious and plentiful! The service was amazing. The woman taking our order was very knowledgeable and food was delivered in a very timely manner! The restaurant was very quaint with some seating, but this restaurant is geared more for take out! Loved our experience, if we are ever back in the area, we will absolutely stop back in! read more

I came here to try it out after hearing some positive reviews. It's a cool spot with a couple tables to sit down and eat, taco spot vibes are on point. The owner was helping me order and I got a variety of things to try including a carnitas taco, which was delicious. The taco shell came out super hot how I like it. Took home a short rib bowl and chicken bowl and they were both delicious. Large bowls that we couldn't finish but the rice, proteins and accoutrements were all delicious. We will definitely add this to the rotation. Thank you, see you soon. read more

Interesting experience. Stumbled across this cute place, decided to give it a whirl. Ordered guac and chips. It was tasty and the portion was hefty for the price. Here's my problem, and a big one: I am a stickler for cleanliness. Though the establishment itself looks clean, the young gentleman at the counter did not seem to adhere to the same practices. He was wearing the same gloves he used to flip tortillas behind him to take orders and type on the keypad in the front. When I asked if he was going to where the same gloves, he looked at me like I was crazy and said "yes." I did NOT like that. He then ignored me and proceeded to take my order. I placed it and asked if the young lady behind him (who was delightful) was going to make it (purposely) because I didn't want him touching my food. In GENERAL, you should be changing your gloves, or just not using them to take orders and then putting them on when you touch food. But after enduring a whole PANDEMIC, it behooves you to CHANGE YOUR GLOVES. Other than that, I would return back. I just would ensure he isn't the one taking my order. read more